Honour Britain’s Forgotten Army on 65th anniversary of VJ Day - Monday, 9 August 2010

A free day of commemorations to pay tribute to the gallant efforts of Britain’s Forgotten Army will mark the 65th anniversary of Victory in Japan (VJ) Day at Fort Nelson on Sunday, August 15.

Uniformed “soldiers” will fire two, 25-pounder field guns simultaneously in an explosive tribute to mark the poignant anniversary, at 12noon and 3pm.

Both gun firings will be followed by live performances from the Royal Armouries’ team of resident actors. They will present the Second World War story of the ‘Chindits’ – British and Commonwealth soldiers who staged some of the greatest raids behind enemy lines of the entire War.

The Royal Armouries is one of the few organisations to regularly mark the anniversary, highlighting the nation’s immense debt of gratitude to those who endured enormous suffering in the Far East.

The programme will include guided tours and a chance to view the museum, which houses the national collection of historic cannon and big guns. The museum has one of the world’s finest collections, with over 350 cannon dating back over 600 years. The collection originated from HM Tower of London and has been on display in Hampshire since 1995.

Museum entry is free and there is a whole range of attractions, designed to appeal to young and old alike, including secret underground tunnels and chambers to explore.

For details of all the Royal Armouries’ Dangerously Entertaining programme of exciting events, visit www.royalarmouries.org

…ENDS…

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Notes to editors

Reporters and photographers are welcome at the event, please call in advance if possible. The fort is steeped in history and a tailored guided tour can be arranged. If you would like copies of photographs of past activities please email or call using the details below.

The Royal Armouries at Fort Nelson houses the national collection of historic cannon and big guns. The museum houses one of the world’s finest collections with over 350 cannon dating back over 600 years. The collection originated at HM Tower of London and has been on display in Hampshire since 1995.

The Royal Armouries at Fort Nelson also tells the story of the Palmerston Forts, built to protect Portsmouth from a feared French invasion in the 1860’s.

Every day, visitors can see one of the big guns fired in salute, watch our resident actors bring to life characters from 1,000 years of history, explore secret underground tunnels and enjoy incredible views from the ramparts. An extensive programme of special event spectaculars takes place throughout the year.

Fort Nelson is open every day except 24-26 December. April to October 10am –5pm (Wed 11am-5pm), November – March 10.30am – 4pm (Wed 11.30-4pm).